
Ann Marie’s Breast Cancer Journey: A Story of Strength and Resilience
Facing Fear and Family History
I am the youngest of seven—six girls. When I was 23, my sister, who had just turned 40, was diagnosed with breast cancer. We had no family history on either side, nor did any of us carry the gene for it (we had genetic testing done at various times in our lives). Because of her diagnosis, I had to start getting mammograms in my late 20s. From that moment on, I lived with the fear that I would get cancer—although it dwindled as the years went by.
Right before that same sister turned 60, her cancer returned, and this time it was much worse—metastatic. I was 43 then, with a six- and four-year-old. She fought it for over three years before she went to Heaven in 2016, shortly before Christmas.
Since then, I have not thought too much about myself ever getting it. I have dense breasts, so getting callbacks for sonograms has happened several times over the years.
The Unexpected Diagnosis
On July 11, 2024, I went in for a routine annual mammogram. I had absolutely no fears or concerns—I was in the best shape of my life. A few days later, I received a callback for a diagnostic exam. For some reason, this time I felt worried. Thank God my husband came with me to the appointment on July 16th, and he actually got to come into the room with me during the sonogram. Even though the radiologist wasn’t acting overly concerned, I could tell it was bad news—especially when he wanted to biopsy the spot.
The biopsy appointment was on July 23rd, and I got the call on July 29th that I had Stage 1, Grade 1 IDC.
Moving Quickly Through Treatment
Things moved very fast after that. On August 1st, I met with my breast surgeon’s PA (because my surgeon was on vacation and she didn’t want me to wait a week). At that appointment, all my results and options were discussed, and a treatment plan was set in place, pending no additional tumors being discovered.
On August 8th, I had an MRI to confirm the diagnosis and ensure there were no other tumors. On August 21st, I was back at my surgeon’s office to discuss the results (no more tumors were found) and to schedule surgery, but first, I had to have a Savi Scout inserted. On August 26th, the Savi Scout was inserted. On August 30th, I had a lumpectomy and one lymph node removed.
I turned 54 the following week (September 6th).
Radiation and Side Effects
On September 25th in the morning, my breast surgeon inserted a Savi catheter. It was literally the most painful thing I’ve ever experienced, made worse because I have small breasts and am very lean. That afternoon, I went to the hospital to have my first CT scan prior to catheter radiation. I had three treatments, each preceded by a CT scan over the next two days. They removed the catheter after the final treatment.
On October 2nd, I met with my oncologist. She had a very positive attitude and prescribed Tamoxifen. She listened to my concerns and answered my questions. Lastly, she said, “Try it for a month. If it doesn’t work, then you know you tried this extra bit to prevent recurrence—but in your case, it’s not a huge amount.” I liked that she wasn’t forcing me to take it no matter how bad the side effects could be. So far, I’m fine and associate anything I feel with normal aging and this pushing me into the final stage of menopause.
Complications and Recovery
At my follow-up appointment with the radiologist on October 11th, I had what appeared to be a rash. They thought it was a reaction from having the bandages removed and reapplied so many times over three days. They recommended hydrocortisone cream and moisturizer, but it did not improve.
On November 7th, I had a follow-up with my breast surgeon’s PA again. She took one look and said, “You have severe radiation burns because the catheter probes were too close to your skin internally.” (Again, my small breasts and thin tissue punishing me.) She prescribed a burn cream, which has helped, but I’m still discolored. She also mentioned that my radiation scar did not heal correctly, and I would need to do painful medical massages to get it to “pop out.” I have been doing them at home, but so far, it’s still very sore and painful with no visible improvement. I have a follow-up on January 30th with my breast surgeon, and I’m hoping she can help.
Embracing the Future
All in all, I have had it “easy” compared to others. I’ve had a really good team that I trust. I did my own research, and since I’m a decisive person, I was prepared to decide on a treatment plan quickly. I have no regrets. Even if this reoccurs, I still believe I made the best decision at the time. I have several friends who, even years later, are unsure if they made the right choice, and I tell them—you can’t look back and second-guess. We must look forward and appreciate today.
A Message from Learn Look Locate
At Learn Look Locate, Ann Marie’s courageous battle against breast cancer touches our hearts deeply. We are honored to share her story, offering a platform for survivors to come together, learn, and find solace in one another’s experiences. Through our diverse range of resources, including Ann Marie’s survivor narrative, our mission is to empower individuals at every phase of their cancer journey. We proudly stand by Ann Marie and all those who demonstrate remarkable courage, celebrating their strength and reminding the world that hope shines brightest, even amidst life’s greatest trials.
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